AFTER all, Abraham was the father and progenitor of both Isaac, the father of Israel (from where Christianity came) and Ishmael, the father of the Arabs (from where Islam came). Therefore, all religious leaders should begin to find ways and means of maintaining religious harmony and peace permanently in Nigeria, in the name of God.

Moreover, in Hebrews 12:14, the holy Bible specifically teaches us that we should “pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord.” (N.K.J.). Also read John 14:27;16:33; Matt. 5:5, 9; Rom. 12:9-21. The Quran also teaches peace, and cannot teach anything different if indeed it is the word of God (of peace). What is more, the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria guarantees freedom of religion, along with other fundamental human rights.

Main solution: Dialogue:  In the light of the foregoing, how then can we ensure religious harmony and permanent peace throughout Nigeria? The answer is through constant, regular and sincere dialogue between the religious leaders and the government. Living and working together is not always easy. Religion harnesses deep emotions, which can sometimes result in some misunderstandings. Where this happens, we must draw on our faith to bring about reconciliation and understanding. The truest fruits of religion are healing and positive. We have a great deal to learn from one another, which can enrich us without undermining our own identities. Together, listening and responding with openness and respect, we can move forward to work in ways that acknowledge genuine dialogue, for religious harmony and lasting peace. Collaboration and cooperation of religions should aim at promoting in the community a culture of dialogue, which respects plurality of religions and does not take the

“otherness” of the other religion as a threat to its own identity. The creation of such a culture of dialogue in the community is the surest way to guarantee harmony.

Additional Solutions: Therefore, I strongly suggest that as a matter of urgency each tier of government should set up an Advisory Council on Religious Affairs (ACRA), as a platform for regular dialogue.